The University of the Free State (UFS) marked a significant milestone on 26 March 2026 as it hosted the 40th Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards at the Odeion Theatre on the Bloemfontein Campus. At the centre of this year’s celebration was Prof ‘Mabokang Monnapula-Mapesela, named Alumna of the Year for her sustained contribution to higher education and institutional transformation in South Africa.

A UFS graduate, Prof Monnapula-Mapesela completed her postgraduate studies in Education at the university, culminating in a PhD in Higher Education Studies. That foundation has shaped nearly four decades of work focused on student success, curriculum reform, and the development of inclusive academic environments. Her work continues to influence how universities respond to questions of access, success, and equity – shaping more inclusive and responsive higher education systems in South Africa.

Now serving as Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic and Student Affairs at Rhodes University, she provides leadership across teaching and learning, curriculum renewal, academic quality, and student affairs. Her appointment in 2019 marked a notable moment in the sector as the first black woman to hold this role at the institution.

Her work extends beyond a single university. Through her roles on the Council on Higher Education’s Research Advice Committee and Umalusi’s Assessment Standards Committee, she contributes to national conversations on quality, access, and accountability in education, helping to strengthen systems that affect students and institutions across the country. Alongside this, she continues to publish, supervise postgraduate students, and engage in research that addresses equity and transformation in higher education.

Speaking during the ceremony, UFS Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Hester C. Klopper, reflected on the broader role that alumni play in shaping both the institution and society:

“Beyond individual achievement, many of you continue to give back through mentorships, bursaries and sponsorships, through seats on our advisory boards, and through the doors you open for our current students. You help us remain connected to the real world and remind us of what employability, innovation, and leadership look like in practice.”

While Prof Monnapula-Mapesela’s recognition anchors this year’s awards, the evening celebrated a wider network of graduates whose work continues to influence communities, professions, and industries.

The 2026 Chancellor’s Distinguished Alumni Awards recognised the following:

Together, these recipients reflect the growing role of UFS alumni in addressing real-world challenges – from education and leadership to community development and public service.

The Chancellor, Prof Bonang Mohale, described the honourees as ambassadors of the university whose work continues to inspire across borders. Their achievements speak to the role of higher education in shaping leaders who are equipped to respond to complex societal challenges.

For Prof Monnapula-Mapesela, the recognition signals both a milestone and a continued commitment. Her career has been defined by opening pathways for others – particularly students navigating access, success, and belonging within higher education, many of whom would otherwise remain excluded.